Due to expected bad weather, Augusta National has put a halt to Monday’s planned practice round for the 89th Masters.
Rainstorms, complete with thunder and gusting winds, are set to batter Augusta, Georgia, until at least 1 p.m. local time, leading to potential disruption or outright postponement of the day’s schedule. Monday marks the start of the pre-tournament practice rounds ahead of the Masters’ main event on Thursday, which this year promises new technological enhancements.
Yet severe weather has been no stranger to the iconic golf tournament, with last year’s competition similarly plagued by tumultuous conditions. In anticipation of the adverse weather, Masters officials released a statement on Sunday advising that entry gates will stay shut beyond their original opening time.
They also instructed patrons to steer clear of the golf club grounds, indicating that further information would be provided promptly on Monday. “Due to expected inclement weather and safety concerns, patron gates will not open as scheduled for Monday’s practice round,” a statement read.
“All patron parking lots will remain closed until further notice. No patrons should approach Augusta National Golf Club until more details are released. The next update will be provided by 8 a.m. Monday.”
Hopes remain for a truncated session later in the day if the weather clears; however, it’s undoubtedly a huge disappointment for fans who have journeyed from all corners to see their golf heroes warm up for one of the sport’s most prestigious events.
(Image: Getty Images)
A keen visitor took to social media platform X after a seven-hour drive for the following day’s practice round, posting: “Just drove 7 hours today for tomorrow’s practice round. Hope you open up for us asap Monday.”
Another determined fan shared a similar sentiment: “Still driving up. Not going to waste winning tickets for the first time in 20+ years trying.”
One more eager attendee turned to his fellow Reddit golf fans for support. “First time going this year, just my luck!” they quipped online. “I know one of you good folks on here is going to at least hook me up from the merch shop if we don’t get in at all lol!”
On the official Masters website, which stands as the only authorized vendor and issuer of tickets, the policy clearly states that tickets are non-transferable and non-refundable. “Tickets are valid only for the date indicated on face of the Ticket,” the terms read. “Augusta National, Inc. (ANI) reserves the right to suspend the Tournament or close the golf course because of adverse weather conditions or for other safety reasons. In such situations, no refunds, rain checks, exchanges or replacements will be made.”
With AccuWeather forecasting thunderstorms from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and a substantial 70 percent chance of rain between 3 p.m. and 7 p.m., those attending Monday’s Masters might be in for disappointment. However, there may be a bit of comfort knowing that back in 2022, when patrons were asked to leave Augusta National shortly before 11 a.m. on a Tuesday, they were allowed to repurchase the same tickets for the following year.
Augusta National chairman Fred Ripley said at the time: “The safety of everyone at Augusta National was the determining factor in the decision to suspend Tuesday’s Practice Round and evacuate the grounds. We share in the disappointment of our patrons, though we look forward to welcoming them back next year.”
- Source: NEWHD MEDIA
